Wegovy (Semaglutide) in Canada: Cost, Coverage and Access
Last reviewed 2026-09-24
Wegovy is semaglutide, the same active ingredient as Ozempic, at doses approved by Health Canada for chronic weight management. It's a once-weekly injection and needs a prescription.
Who it's approved for
- Adults with a BMI of 30 or more (obesity).
- Adults with a BMI of 27 or more who also have at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol.
- Used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and more physical activity.
- Some adolescents aged 12 and up, based on specific criteria.
Cost and coverage
Provincial public drug plans generally don't cover Wegovy for weight management. Some private workplace plans do, often with prior authorization. Without coverage, the cost is often several hundred dollars a month and varies by pharmacy and dose — ask your pharmacy for a quote and compare with the pharmacy price tools on MapleWell.
Wegovy vs Ozempic
Both are semaglutide made by Novo Nordisk. Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes and goes up to 2 mg weekly; Wegovy is approved for weight management and goes up to 2.4 mg weekly. Your prescriber chooses based on your diagnosis and coverage.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, especially while increasing the dose.
- Reduced appetite and stomach discomfort.
- Rare but serious: pancreatitis, gallbladder problems. Get urgent care for severe, lasting stomach pain.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a prescription for Wegovy in Canada?
Yes. It's prescription-only; be cautious of online sellers offering it without one.
Is Wegovy covered by OHIP or provincial plans?
Generally no for weight management. Check your private plan, which may cover it with prior approval.
Official sources
This guide is general information, not medical or financial advice. Program rules and amounts change — confirm with the official source or your pharmacist.